A traumatic brain injury (TBI) can change the course of a victim’s life. Since a TBI involves the most complex system in the human body, it is difficult for medical professionals to give TBI patients an accurate prognosis. Some TBI victims recover in days to weeks, and others experience lifelong symptoms.
Given the potentially devastating consequences of a TBI, it’s important for you to know the common causes of this injury so you can take measures to protect your health.
What Causes Traumatic Brain Injuries?
TBIs have two main causes: blunt force trauma and oxygen deprivation.
Blunt Force Trauma
When the head experiences sudden acceleration or deceleration, such as in an accident or an assault, the brain may be slower to catch up. When the brain eventually does catch up to this movement, it may bounce against the inside of the skull, causing bruising, bleeding, and an injury.
The severity of the blow to the head will determine whether a victim experiences a mild, moderate, or severe TBI.
Common situations in which such blunt force trauma may occur include the following:
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Auto accidents
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Slip and fall accidents
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Sports accidents
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Assaults
Oxygen Deprivation
Another common cause of TBIs is oxygen deprivation. The brain, as the most complex system in the human body, requires a steady stream of oxygen in order to function properly. When this oxygen supply is decreased (hypoxia) or cut off altogether (anoxia), brain cells begin to die and serious brain damage may result.
If the brain damage is severe enough, the victim may experience a TBI with lifelong consequences.
Common situations in which such oxygen deprivation may occur include the following:
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Near drowning
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Strangulation
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Carbon monoxide poisoning
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Surgical errors caused by medical malpractice
Suffered a Traumatic Brain Injury? Contact Us Today
If you or someone you love has suffered a TBI due to recklessness, our Louisville personal injury attorneys can help you seek justice.
At Dolt, Thompson, Shepherd & Conway, PSC, we have the experience and resources needed to handle big cases, and win.
Contact us today at (502) 244-7772 to schedule a free consultation with our team.